At the first, it was merely an office of deputation… But when as that, the office of an Earl, was erected to a dignity and appointed to follow the blood of him which possessed it: then also, the title and name, of Viscount, was joined as a dignity for the posterity to inherit, and discerned, as a special degree of gentleness and
nobility.

But in later times, the ensigns and marks of Knighthood, by the sword, are observed, to be a girdle and sword gilded, and girded to his side: as also, a pair of spurs gilt, to signify… the reward of his horsemanship and that he is a Chevalier.